The majority of herbs haven’t been thoroughly tested to determine how they work, or if they react with other herbs or supplements, medications, or food. Interactions can also occur when products are added to herbal preparations. Remember that “natural” doesn’t mean “safe”. Tell your doctor about all herbs and dietary supplements you use. Here are some medicinal herbs that you may be familiar with.
Echinacea
Echinacea or coneflower is a popular flowering plant.
Native Americans have used it for centuries to treat various ailments including burns, toothaches, and stomach upsets.
The roots are believed to have the most potent effect, but many people use the leaves and petals.
Echinacea can be taken orally as a supplement, but it is also effective when applied topically.
It’s used primarily to treat or prevent colds, but the science isn’t very strong.
A review of over 4,000 people showed that echinacea could reduce the risk of catching a cold by 10-20%. However, there is little evidence to suggest it can treat a cold once you’ve caught it (3TrustedSource).
Although there are not enough data to determine the long-term effect of this herb, it is generally safe for short-term usage. It is important to note that side effects such as nausea, stomach pain, and skin rash are sometimes reported by 4TrustedSource.
Chamomile
In the U.S., chamomile has been used for relaxation and anxiety. In Europe, it is used to heal wounds and reduce swelling or inflammation. There have been few studies that examine how effective it is for various conditions. Chamomile can be used either as a tea or as a compress. FDA considers it safe. It can increase the drowsiness that is caused by medications or other herbs and supplements. Chamomile can interfere with how the body uses certain medicines. This may cause too much medicine to be present in some people.
Topical chamomile can be used to soothe skin irritation caused by radiation cancer treatment. The capsule form of chamomile may be used to reduce vomiting during chemotherapy.
Elderberry
The cooked fruit of the Sambucus plant is used to make elderberry, an ancient herbal remedy. It has been used for centuries to treat headaches, toothaches, and nerve pain. Colds, viral infections, and constipation are also relieved by it.
It’s mostly marketed today as a remedy for the symptoms of flu and cold.
Elderberry syrup and lozenges are available, but there is no standard dose. Some people make their elderberry syrup or tea using honey, ginger, and other ingredients.
Human research on plant compounds is limited (11TrustedSource).
Elderberry may shorten the duration of influenza infections in humans, but larger studies are required to determine whether it is more effective than antiviral treatments (12TrustedSource, 13TrustedSource, 14TrustedSource).
The short-term use of unripe fruit or raw fruit can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (15TrustedSource).
You can buy this herbal remedy online or in health shops.
Garlic
Garlic is used in many countries for cooking and its medicinal properties. Garlic compounds have been found to possess antimicrobial properties, as well as cardioprotective, cancer-fighting, and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties could be a reason why garlic is believed to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Unfortunately, there is no conclusive evidence. Garlic is considered safe by the FDA. Garlic can cause bleeding, so it should not be taken with warfarin (a blood thinner). The same applies to large doses taken before dental or surgical procedures.
Natural remedies for anxiety
Take five minutes to breathe deeply and slowly before you start your day. Consider the day ahead and what you’re grateful for. Also, think about your loved ones.
Teach your children to breathe exercises on the way to school to prepare them for the day. Slow down your breathing by inhaling for four seconds and then exhaling for six seconds. This will activate the part of our nervous system responsible for calming us.
Listen to calming music on the way to or from work and school.
Spend a few moments after work to prepare yourself for the transition from work to home. Focus on your family and forget about the issues that have not been resolved at work.
Safety note: Inform your doctor of any herbal remedies and supplements that you take. Consult your doctor if you’re pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription medication before using herbal remedies.
